Steroid drug withdrawal is present when corticosteroid drugs (given to treat inflammation and other conditions) are stopped suddenly. The effects of steroid withdrawal can mimic those of many illnesses.
Signs and symptoms of steroid withdrawal can include
Other possible associated symptoms and signs can include
- low blood pressure (hypotension),
- dizziness or fainting,
- low blood sugar (hypoglycemia),
- menstrual changes,
- joint pain,
- skin changes,
- muscle aches,
- fever,
- mental changes,
- elevations of blood calcium level,
- dehydration, and
- electrolyte imbalances.
A decrease in contractions of the gastrointestinal tract can also occur with steroid withdrawal.
Cause of steroid drug withdrawal
Stopping, or decreasing too rapidly, the dose of steroid medication can cause steroid drug withdrawal.
Other steroid drug withdrawal symptoms and signs
- Abdominal Pain
- Decreased Appetite
- Dehydration
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness or Fainting
- Electrolyte Imbalances
- Elevations of Blood Calcium Level
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Joint Pain
- Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)
- Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
- Menstrual Changes
- Mental Changes
- Muscle Aches
- Nausea
- Skin Changes
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Weight Loss
Main Article on Steroid Drug Withdrawal Symptoms and Signs
QUESTION
About how much does an adult human brain weigh? See Answer
From 
Drugs and Treatment Resources
Featured Centers
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Subscribe to MedicineNet's General Health Newsletter
By clicking Submit, I agree to the MedicineNet's Terms & Conditions & Privacy Policy and understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet's subscriptions at any time.
References
Jameson, J. Larry, et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 20th Ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Education, 2018.